

It was a fateful day at the 2023 Italian Open as the court faced a tumultuous disruption of heavy rain. The tragic outcome saw Anna Bondar, the 25-year-old Hungarian WTA player, lose in a heart-wrenching defeat. The incessant downpour rendered the court dangerously slippery, causing both players to struggle with balance and stability. In a truly devastating spectacle, Bondar succumbed to the condition and lost to Qinwen Zheng. The tennis world has been left in an uproar of condemnation and disapproval.
The rain at the tournament posed a threat to the players’ safety. Despite their best efforts, the court became increasingly slippery, making it challenging for both players to maintain their balance and stability. Tragically, in a heart-wrenching spectacle, Bondar slipped on match point, conceding the match to her rival Zheng.
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WTA tennis player falls victim to rain interruption at the Italian Open
Unfortunately, the weather played a significant role in the outcome of the match between Anna Bondar and Qinwen Zheng at the Italian Open 2023. While playing in the rain can be challenging, it is the responsibility of the tournament organizers to take steps to mitigate any risks to the players. Despite the difficult weather conditions, both players fought hard on the court. Anna Bondar showed great resilience to win the second set 6-0 after struggling in the first set, but unfortunately, a slip in the third set cost her the match.

via Getty
BATH, ENGLAND – FEBRUARY 08: Johanna Konta of Great Britain celebrates victory during the Europe/Africa Group A match against Anna Bondar of Hungary during day three of the Fed Cup at the University of Bath on February 08, 2019 in Bath, England. (Photo by Dan Mullan/Getty Images)
As the rain intensified during the match, the court became increasingly slippery. It made it difficult for both players to maintain their footing. Despite the challenging conditions, Bondar displayed great resilience. She managed to come back from a set down, winning the second set 6-0. However, on match point, Bondar slipped, leading to a heartbreaking loss and handing the victory to her opponent, Zheng. This unfortunate incident has brought attention to the importance of ensuring player safety during matches played under adverse weather conditions.
A fan account shared, “some crazy moments from the last changeover at 5-4 to the Zheng-Bondar handshake in a heavy rain yesterday evening. Even commentators were surprised. “that is so unfair” right after the match point.”
some crazy moments from the last changeover at 5-4 to the Zheng-Bondar handshake in a heavy rain yesterday evening.
even commentators were surprised.
"that is so unfair" right after match point https://t.co/YtsotFmkrN pic.twitter.com/7mic72nhfV— Diego Barbiani (@Diego_Barbiani) May 14, 2023
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As the players made their way to the net for the traditional post-match handshake, Bondar was upset and visibly muttering under her breath. She sarcastically raised her thumb to the referee. She also muttered a few words to the arbitrator and left the commentators in disbelief.
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What impact do you think such dramatic moments have on the players and the sport as a whole? Share your valuable comments below.
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